Education at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery

About the Program

Matter at Hand is a museum-based program that serves more than 1,500 visitors with special needs each year. The program combines tours of the Gallery's Permanent Collection and special exhibitions, hands-on art workshops, and group discussions to enable individuals to express themselves and to learn about the language and creation of art. Matter at Hand tours and workshops are designed to meet the needs and interests of the specific school or agency group.

For more information or to schedule a visit for your school or organization, please call 716.270.8249.

The Matter at Hand program is made possible through the generous support of the the James H. Cummings Foundation, Inc. Endowment and the Eileen and Rupert Warren Charitable Fund, and HSBC - North America.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Matter at Hand program cost?
Through the generous support of community foundations and grants, the Matter at Hand program is free for participating organizations and schools.

What size group can the Matter at Hand program accommodate?
In order to make the experience enjoyable and valuable for all, groups are usually limited to a maximum of ten participants. Groups must be accompanied by agency/school staff at all times. Exceptions are made for 12:1:1 special education classes.

How long is each session and what does the program entail?
Sessions are approximately one hour to an hour-and-a-half in length. The Matter at Hand program utilizes Gallery tours, hands-on art activities, and group discussions--as well as incorporating other art forms such as movement, music, and poetry--to enable individuals to express themselves verbally and nonverbally in the art museum environment.

Who can participate in the program?
The Matter at Hand program accommodates groups with special needs from a variety of human service agencies and schools throughout Western New York. The term "special needs" in this instance, is interpreted from a broad perspective to include individuals with developmental, physical, mental, or emotional challenges. Some examples of participating groups include individuals from group homes, day rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, residential treatment facilities, mental health facilities, outpatient treatment programs, schools, and individuals with visual or hearing impairment.

How often can groups attend the Matter at Hand program?
Groups can schedule up to four visits in a six month period, depending on availability.

Can we take photographs in the Gallery?
You are welcome to take photographs of your students/participants and their artwork in the classrooms.
Photographs of the Gallery's Permanent Collection are permitted.
Use of a flash is not permitted.

Does the Gallery provide luncheon facilities?
There are no luncheon facilities of any kind at the Gallery for school groups.

muse, the Gallery's restaurant, offers casual dining overlooking the serene Sculpture Garden. For reservations, please call 716.270.8223.

How can I contribute to the Matter at Hand program?
If you would like to make a financial contribution or donate supplies to the Matter at Hand program, please call Elaine Pyne at 716.270.8207.

Program Goals

The following are suggested goals that can be reinforced through the Gallery tour and art activity. Please let us know if there are other goals or curriculum that your agency/school is working on. The tour and art activity can be adapted to meet your group's needs and interests.

Increase accessibility of the Gallery's Permanent Collection and special exhibitions
Provide participants with opportunities for recreation and socialization
Improve feeling identification and expression through the use of art
Increase sensory awareness and integration
Develop language skills
Teach/reinforce elements of art
Introduce participants to art history